Jean Lessard

Jean Lessard (1932–2013) was a pioneering Canadian alpine skier and a central figure in the development of skiing in Quebec. Born in Sherbrooke, he emerged as a standout competitor, first as junior champion of the Eastern Townships from 1948 to 1952, then as senior champion from 1953 to 1959.

Lessard gained national prominence by winning five consecutive International Adams Memorial races at Mont Orford. In 1959, he captured the “Québec Kandahar” special slalom at Mont Tremblant and made history as the first French-speaking Canadian to win the national alpine skiing championship in slalom, giant slalom and combined events.

In 1960, Lessard represented Canada at the Olympic Winter Games in Squaw Valley, finishing 31st in the giant slalom. Shortly thereafter, he retired from competitive skiing and turned his focus to the development of the sport at the grassroots and institutional levels.

He became instrumental in the creation and growth of Mont Sutton ski resort, founding the Mont Sutton Ski School and ski shop and leading both operations for more than 30 years. Under his direction, the ski school became one of the most respected in Canada and the northeastern United States. It attracted large numbers of students and introduced innovative initiatives, including ski-study programs and advanced instructor training courses.

Lessard also served as a director of the Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance, playing a key role in shaping national ski instruction standards. Known for his leadership, charisma and insistence on quality, he recruited top instructors, including European assistant directors, ensured all instructors were certified, offered competitive salaries and fostered a strong sense of team spirit.

Beyond the slopes, Lessard was deeply involved in community development. He supported local businesses and organized ski events that helped establish Sutton as a premier ski destination. His legacy is reflected in the success of the many skiers he trained and in the enduring reputation of Mont Sutton within the Canadian ski landscape.

Lessard was inducted into the Sherbrooke Sports Hall of Fame, recognizing his lasting impact on Canadian skiing and his community.

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

• 1948–1952 – Junior champion, Eastern Townships.
• 1953–1959 – Senior champion, Eastern Townships.
• 1950s – Winner of five consecutive International Adams Memorial races, Mont Orford.
• 1959 – Winner, “Québec Kandahar” special slalom, Mont Tremblant; first French-speaking Canadian to win the national alpine championship in slalom, giant slalom and combined events.
• 1960 – Represented Canada at the Olympic Winter Games (Squaw Valley); 31st place, giant slalom.
• 1960s–1990s – Founder and director, Mont Sutton Ski School and ski shop; led operations for more than 30 years; developed one of Canada’s leading ski schools.
• 1960s–1980s – Director, Canadian Ski Instructors’ Alliance; contributor to national ski instruction standards.
• Career – Key contributor to the development of Mont Sutton ski resort and the broader Sutton ski community.

Note: The information gathered in this biography was compiled from a number of sources; it may not be inclusive of all accomplishments. Copyright © Canadian Ski Hall of Fame & Museum. For personal and/or educational use only. All rights reserved.